Recent Play Details

Giannis Antetokounmpko took 22 free throw attempts in Game 3. He’s gotten to the line 50 times in the first three games of this series. Brad Stevens isn’t a clown and the Celtics have the personnel to make defensive adjustments with 72 hours between the tip for Game 3 and the tip for Game 4. Most notably, coming off a full practice on Saturday, it looks as if Boston’s defensive stopper Marcus Smart is likely to get back on the floor this evening, following an extended injury absence. I’m not expecting the Greek Freak to live at the free throw line this evening.

The Bucks have gotten back-2-back VERY strong games from their supporting cast. The likes of Kris Middleton, Nikola Mirotic, Brook Lopez, Eric Bledsoe, Pat Connaughton and George Hill have all gotten going offensively – too many weapons for the Celtics to stop when everybody is hitting. But after allowing 123 in defeat in each of the last two games, I’m confident that the Bucks supporting cast won’t have quite so many open looks this evening. And frankly, I want my money ON Kyrie Irving in a ‘must win’ game when the chips are down; a proven postseason performer in games like this one. Look for Boston to find a way…..Take the Celtics.